Published on
September 28, 2025
Hamad International Airport (DOH) has taken a significant step to enhance Qatar’s aviation connectivity with China by signing a Sister Airport agreement with Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX).
Hamad International Airport (DOH) has taken a significant step to enhance Qatar’s aviation connectivity with China by signing a Sister Airport agreement with Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX). This strategic partnership between two major airports aims to strengthen passenger and cargo connectivity between the Middle East and China, further deepening economic ties, technological collaboration, and cultural exchange. Both Doha and Shenzhen are cities recognized globally for their innovation-driven growth, with strong foundations in trade and technology, making aviation a powerful tool to further their development.
Hamad International Airport (DOH) has taken a significant step to enhance Qatar’s aviation connectivity with China by signing a Sister Airport agreement with Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX).
The agreement between Hamad International Airport and Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport underscores the importance of air transport in facilitating global trade and cultural exchange. Qatar and China share a vision of harnessing aviation to support mutual growth. With this Sister Airport relationship, both airports are working to unlock new opportunities that will allow greater ease of travel and more robust connections between their respective regions.
Hamad International Airport currently serves as a vital hub connecting Doha to several major Chinese cities. These cities include Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chongqing, Hangzhou, Xiamen, Chengdu, and Hong Kong, which are key economic and cultural centers in China. Through Hamad International, these cities are linked to over 120 global destinations, providing a seamless travel experience for passengers heading to and from various parts of the world.
From January to August 2024, Hamad International Airport recorded an impressive 1.1 million passengers traveling to and from China. Shenzhen alone accounted for over 2% of the total traffic, reflecting the growing demand for travel between the Middle East and this dynamic Chinese city. This trend highlights the increasing importance of direct air links between Qatar and China, as well as the expanding economic and cultural ties between the two regions.
One of the key ways in which Hamad International Airport is positioning itself as a leading global hub is through its participation in major industry events. At the 2024 Routes World event, Hamad International showcased its robust network and continued growth. The airport engaged with airline partners to further strengthen Qatar’s global connectivity and to support demand for travel to Doha. By presenting its high-quality infrastructure, passenger growth figures, and strategic location, Hamad International continues to solidify its status as a key player in the global aviation industry.
A notable development in the Qatar-China aviation relationship occurred in October 2024 when Shenzhen Airlines launched its first-ever Middle East route. The airline began operating thrice-weekly flights between Doha and Shenzhen, offering passengers a new direct connection between the two cities. This new service marks Shenzhen Airlines’ inaugural foray into the Middle East market and is the latest addition to Hamad International’s growing list of Chinese destinations. With Shenzhen Airlines joining the roster of carriers flying between China and Doha, Hamad International now offers direct services to nine Chinese cities, further increasing the options available for travelers between the two regions.
The launch of Shenzhen Airlines’ service to Doha is a clear indication of the increasing demand for air travel between Qatar and China, particularly as trade and tourism between the two countries continue to flourish. The new route enhances Qatar’s strategic positioning as a gateway between the Middle East and Asia, providing greater connectivity for both business and leisure travelers.
In addition to the new service from Shenzhen Airlines, Qatar Airways has also been expanding its collaboration with Chinese carriers. Qatar Airways, which is known for its extensive network and global reach, announced an expansion of its codeshare agreement with China Southern Airlines. Starting on October 16, 2025, Qatar Airways will codeshare on China Southern’s three weekly direct flights between Beijing Daxing and Doha. This expanded cooperation will provide passengers with additional travel options and streamline connections between the Middle East and China.
As part of the expanded agreement, China Southern will also place its “CZ” code on Qatar Airways flights to 15 destinations in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. This codeshare arrangement further strengthens the aviation corridor between Qatar and China, offering travelers a wider range of routes and improving the overall travel experience for those flying between the two regions. By combining the strengths of both airlines, Qatar Airways and China Southern Airlines are creating a more seamless and efficient travel experience for passengers.
The strengthened cooperation between Hamad International Airport, Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, Qatar Airways, and China Southern Airlines is a testament to the growing importance of air travel in facilitating international business and cultural exchange. With more direct flights, expanded codeshare agreements, and increased passenger traffic, the partnership between Qatar and China is set to thrive in the coming years.
This collaboration is also a reflection of both countries’ commitment to promoting mutual growth, not only through the aviation sector but also through enhanced economic, technological, and cultural ties. The new Sister Airport agreement and the expansion of air services are just the beginning of what promises to be a long-term, fruitful partnership between Qatar and China, offering greater connectivity and opportunities for both regions. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the role of aviation in fostering global cooperation continues to grow, and this partnership is a prime example of how two nations can come together to create lasting positive change through enhanced travel and connectivity.
